In this world, there is nothing more refreshing than someone saying “no” to the misguided and highly-confused Hollywood machine.

The New York Post is reporting that Phil Carlo, author of The Ice Man: Confessions of a Mafia Contract Killer, has pulled out of his deal with producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura to turn his book into a movie. The reason: di Bonaventura wanted to cast questionable budding superstar Channing Tatum (G.I. Joe, Step Up) in the lead role of the Ice Man, Richard Kuklinski. If you’re not familiar with Kuklinski, then this doesn’t really affect you either way. Believe me when I say that would have been one of the most disgusting casting choices in the history of cinema.

In case you’re not familiar with him, Richard Kuklinski was a man who claimed to have killed 100 to 200 people, and this being true would not surprise me in the least. At first, he was just a purely cold-blooded killer who told stories of murdering people with no remorse for every-day things that simply piss you and I off, like road rage. When the mafia caught wind of his…ability…to kill without a second thought, they went out and hired him as their hitman. He obtained his nickname, Ice Man, due to the fact that he threw the bodies of his victims in a giant freezer to make determining the time of death nearly impossible. He died in prison in 2006.

Click over to see a video featuring one of history’s most dangerous men ever to exist.

Apparently, the option that di Bonaventura owned was about to expire, and he was asking for more time from Carlo so he could get financing and get the project moving. Carlo had heard that the actor he had in mind was Tatum, so he smartly said no.

Here’s a quote on the matter from Carlo:

I had to turn him down. I really hated the idea of Channing Tatum. I told di Bonaventura that this is not the guy to play one of the most feared killers of the 20th Century. I think Mickey Rourke would really be good. He’s got that sense of danger, and there’s a similarity between the two. But it’s not Channing Tatum.

Honestly, I don’t even think Mickey Rourke is a good choice for this role, at all.

It’s hard for me to even describe this man to you if you haven’t seen him with your own eyes. MSNBC has two specials that feature him sitting down with an interviewer, ready and willing to answer every single question in detail. Late one night, I caught one of these specials by chance, and I’ve never been the same. I couldn’t change the channel because the man was frightfully fascinating — he was diabolically infatuating. The way he spoke about these incredibly unspeakable acts…was almost hard to watch. He spoke of them with no remorse, no regret, not a care in the world, like he would and could do every single one of them again in a heartbeat. The man was literally ice cold, and I always thought his nickname fit him much better in this regard.

The reason a name like Channing Tatum makes me so angry, is because of how unique this man was, not only in his personality, but in his mannerisms. He had a very distinct voice complete with an accent. His eyes and his mouth had very obvious and natural ticks to their movements while he spoke of his acts. This man wasn’t born, he was undeviatingly molded of the fires of Hell. Then when you didn’t think a man could be harder to portray as an actor, he throws another layer into the cake: sadness. At one point in one of the specials, Kuklinski’s family becomes the topic of discussion, and in one of the more chilling scenes of the whole thing, you see the slightest of slight signs of emotion. This man with no emotion whatsoever — no problem with killing another human being — truly and honestly loved his family. You witness a man with no regrets bare his one regret, and it can almost be a touching moment. If there is an actor out there who could portray this man with perfection, there is no doubt in my mind that they would win an Oscar — it would be one thousand times more impressive than Charlize Theron’s similar job on Monster.

When I first saw these specials, I immediately wished I could write the script, because the character was just that amazing. Unfortunately, I’m not that talented. I literally spent hours thinking about it as a movie and who could possibly play Richard Kuklinski, and I could not think of one. James Gandolfini is probably the closest one out there, but because he played Tony Soprano, he’s already typecast and it wouldn’t work. I think someone like Paul Giamatti could do it, but he’s too small — Kuklinski was a giant of a man. I think someone like Michael Parks (Bill’s gentleman of leisure father-figure in Kill Bill Volume 2) could do well, but again, too small, too skinny.

The reason why I think it’s impossible to play Kuklinski? Because that man has seen things more horrible than any of us could ever imagine, and you can see it in his eyes. Whether someone can play him or not is yet-to-be-seen, but I promise you one thing: Channing Tatum is so far from talented enough to do the job, it’s sickening.

As you can tell, I’ve had a large amount of thoughts about this man and his story as a movie. With no one else ever having seen it that I could discuss it with, you guys get to hear it all. Thanks for sticking in there!

Here’s one part of one of the specials on MSNBC. It’s an interview from 1995, and you can see for yourself what I mean. I believe you can watch the rest on YouTube if you want to. I’m not sure how often they’re replayed on TV. Video has some graphic topics and images, so watch with caution.

I want to hear what you all think. Who could possibly play Richard Kuklinski in a movie, and do it well?

Video

PHiL

read the book…it’s F*CKING insane!

Robert

The book is incredible!!! THis would be an extremely tough role to cast. However,I think Rourke would actually work. Tatum would have been a terrible, TERRIBLE decision! glad that didn’t happen. Hope it all works out! Would love to see this be made into a movie. Thanks for this article!

scrotumbagmonkeyflicker

Making a movie about this moron would only glorify this crazed maniac. He is a hero to many a little boy.

Ben

He’s too old and I don’t know how he matches up size wise, but the first person that came to my head to play this guy was Tom Wilkinson. I think he could come closest.

Swey

I don’t understand what exactly di Bonaventura was thinking when he decided on Tatum — how exactly is he supposed to turn him into someone who looks like Kuklinski? Its like sexy G.I Joe boy meet horrid and old cold-blooded killer… I don’t think people would want to develop a fantasy about Kaklinski in that way. NO WAY! haha.

kelly

I read the book and it was so good. This man actually fed live people to rats and filmed their deaths (by being eaten by the rats)! I’ll have to give some thought as to who should play Kuklinski. But Tatum is certainly wouldn’t work.

studiodude

Here’s the deal; Carlo is right, Tatum is a terrible choice. But he was picked because he’s being groomed to be the next big thing and has nothing to do with accuracy. Brian Dennehy would have been perfect, but he’s too old now. Gandolfini is another great choice, but he’s too concerned about shedding Tony Soprano. David Morse would also be excellent, but he’s not a box office star… do I hear TV movie? Ron Perlman? Tom Noonan? John Ashton? Hmmm… how about John Lithgow? He certainly has the acting chops.

mE

Busey.?

James T

Michael Madsen might work. The infamous scene in Reservoir Dogs is typical of Richard K.’s work. Not a perfect fit but he definitely has the size and intensity.

Eileen C

Having stayed up 2 nights listening to the audiobook, I was so relieved that Carlos insisted on another actor besides this Tatum Channing. This is the role of a life time. I think many of the recommendations mentioned earlier are great. I don’t know how they would approach the script but we need to see this character through the stages of life. Gandolfini has the look and the gravitas. I also thought of Dennehy. I also think Busey would be great or Rourke. Get the book -the film will have a lot to live up to.

Tom

I couldn’t imagine anyone more perfect to play Richard Kuklinski than James Gandolfini, if thats not possible then Jack Nicholsen.

Roy De Meo – Danny DeVito
Robert Pronge (Mr Softee) gotta be casted by the one and only “Billy Drago”

I don’t know why..but I think Nicholas Cage might be a good choice. I think he has a good cold stare, good height, and has the acting chops to pull it off.

Darden

I’ve just come across this article, and I couldn’t agree more with the author’s decision. Mr. Tatum is a very good actor for certain roles; this isn’t one. I read with interest other suggestions — “studiodude” had, I think, some very good casting ideas as well as good reads on one or two of them; Ben (from Aug. 11) also had a terrific choice in Tom Wilkinson. I’ve seen the interviews before MSNBC aired them; they were initially shown on HBO. Just as the article’s writer stated, I had to watch these interviews. I had seen the promos for them on HBO and was looking forward to it. After the first one aired, I remained seated for a few seconds. Then I looked on the schedule for the next airing. Chilling.
Back to the casting debate. I don’t know how closely the director will follow the book, nor do I know how much the interviews will influence him. But after reading the other suggestions I’ll throw in Frank Langella to play Kuklinski in the “interview” years. As to whom to pick for the “early” Kuklinski – physical characteristics can almost be compromised if you have the right actor for this part. I can’t come up with anyone for that role. Joey (Oct. 27) may have the guy in Nicholas Cage.

morris

My choice would be either Gandolfini or John Lithgow. Funnily enough, the latter played a serial killer on Dexter, which seemed to be based on Richard Kuklinski.

tom myles

i think an unknown should play kuklinski, i think i! could do it, people tell me i look like him,im not an actor but iv’e been acting all my life,so to speak every body is an actor to some degree

Mickey Rourke is the only actor I truly believe could pull this off. Looks aside (they can always do the makeup in order to get Kuklinski’s appearance down), Rourke has the acting ability to portray this guy. I just can’t think of anyone else as good. Besides, he now has the rights to the book and has a rapport with the author which will help a great deal. Carlo is going to give Rourke access to Kuklinski’s family, etc., which will make the interpretation much more authentic.

doberman

I am a sociology major and psychology minor and I did my final term paper on Richard Kuklinski and I ended up disturbing my teacher with the story of Richard. The actor I believe could portray this man would be David Morse because he has already played a psychopath perfectly in Disturbia. And for the idea of Danny Devito playing Roy De Meo that would be almost as bad as a decision as wanting Channing Tatum to play Richard.

ujjhj

william hurt… you’re welcome

Aerrloin

Gandolfini would be the best bet for Richard K,If not Michael madsden or possibly big steve winter with imperioli playing polifrone

damo1313

I would cast in this order, Mickey Rourke, Mike Madson or Steven Segal.

sergio barajas

James Gandolfini should play richard kuklinski ans yes please make this movie but dont fuck it up it has to be a classic.Ive seen both Kuklinski interviews and i always said he looked like Tony Soprano

sergio barajas

the guy from the sopranos who plays tony (James Gandolfini) please make this movie but dont fuck it up

CashCrop

James Gandolfini would completely own this role.
If its a question of hiring a big name, he’s the one without a doubt.
I perosnally would go down the route of auditioning unknowns for this role, someone whos say in his early 40s.

Matt Swartz

This man has fascinated me for a long time.

The book is nothing short of amazing. However I wonder how this could be made into a movie that isn’t like 3-4 hours long (at least!)? There is just so many interesting things in his life, and of course the sheer number of the people he killed, that I think a 1.5-2 hour movie would not be possible.

The best bet to me would be an unknown actor. I don’t know of any actors, as great as they may be, that could match the character of Richard Kuklinski. Doing a convincing job of playing Kuklinski seems almost impossible. There is no doing him justice in terms of his mannerisms, his eyes, etc.

If I had to choose a Hollywood actor though the two top choices for me would be James Gandolfini and Jack Nicholson. Neither would work well though, however they seem like the only possible choices (although someone mentioned Tom Wilkinson…he’s a damn good actor who might be able to pull it off). Anyway, I’m going to go into pro’s and con’s of my two Hollywood choices:

James Gandolfini – Looks a little like him if you applied the right makeup. Has experience playing murders.

However he’s Italian…and Kuklinski was Polish. Due to both Gandolfini’s unshakable accent, the fact that he always speaks too fast, and that not only would he try and play it as sort of his reprised character from the Sopranos…but he also doesn’t want to do any more mobster movies anyways.
He’d turn the script down.

Jack Nicholson – There were some scenes in The Departed where not only did he look and dress like Kuklinski, but he also had the same sort of look in his face and eyes, and he even spoke a tiny bit like him (in a select few scenes).

However, Nicholson would only be able to play him in his later years due to his age. The other thing is that Nicholson has such a distinctive voice. He would need to really work a bit on losing that voice and adopting Richard’s way of speaking. The biggest problem is, like Gandolfini, there is no way he would take the part.

Nicholson originally did not want to do The Departed because he said it would be the only character people would remember him as. The same would obviously hold true for this character, and Nicholson seems to want to stay away from playing any material like this these days.

As for the Mickey Rourke suggestions (by both the author and the comments here)…are you people serious?
Yes he’s an excellent actor, and has been playing many violent characters. However he would never be able to lose that raspy voice of his, he doesn’t look like Kuklinski at all, and no amount of makeup could fix that. Plus I have a really hard time picturing him with a Polish accent ;)

We need someone unknown to play him…and you need to let me write the script if you’re reading this Mr. Carlo ;)

P.S: For Mr. Softee I would pick Tom Noonan. He’s a dead-ringer for him.

For DeMeo I’m not really sure who I’d pick. Really, any good actor that’s Italian and overweight would work :P
I’ve seen some no-name actors in movies that look just like him.

Justin S

I think Jon Favreau could be a good pick. He’s certainly got the size and look. He can do some pretty nasty stares too. He’s 43 which is probably a suitable age(not too old). I think he’s a pretty good actor too. I’m sure this sort of role wouldn’t be too much of a stretch for him. Check him out!

Alonzo Avelar

How about Frank Minucci, he was the guy that played Tony Taglialucci in Carlitos Way. The one that was robbed 1 million
from Dave “Sean Penn”.

He was Killed by Dave “Sean Penn” on the Boat….

I think he looks like Richard Kuklinski, He has the Voice and he’s big too….

what about John Malkovich? is he too old? but good at playing killers, check out ‘in the line of fire’. maybe since doing a good job as a nut job in Bronson (and having a dodgy mustache)old Tom could do it. or what about Billy Zane (in a wig of course).

WOW!
I think you found him. He looks like him, has the same mannerisms, and a similar bizzare way of dressing himself. He also looks to have mob connections, he lives in Jersey, and he’s a convicted drug dealer and car thief.

He’d be perfect.
Unfortunately, seeing that he’s a criminal, he’d never get the role. Plus due to his “mob connections”, if he really is a connected man, he might not be allowed to take the role…

I’d probably cast him though.

Really good eye. You should be a casting director!

uncle mike

I actually emailed p carlo after i read the book.
i was so fascinated i said this has to be made into a movie.
If done properly and well i think it could break into the top 20-50 best films ever.
If martin scorcese got involved and they told the whole story of richard kuklinski.

Kim

How about Michael Chiklis from the Sheild…not sure how tall he is.

Randall

The book was 100% the best book I have ever read. It was so unbelievably written i felt I was reading a novel. It would be extremely hard to cast this man in a movie.

I agree with uncle mike. Scorcese would be an absolutely amazing choice to direct this film.

As far as an actor… James Gandolfini would have been a good choice, but if rourke could get the character down i think he would been the best choice.

Sargent Bogamill.From beverly hills cop.He looks just like kuklinski.Check out the movie.The seen after he falls in the pool.He changes into a suit from the 70’s that’s just like kuklinski’s.Even his hair’s the same.

My father also had a very good idea.Woody Harrilson.Mr.Natural born killer.Iam sure he could pull it off.

scoteee

a lot of these suggestions are too old now and wouldn’t get away with the earlier part of kuklinski’s life.

jack nicholson and some of the other names are not in line with the timings.

How about Kevin Spacey,Vinnie jones who has a naturally cold look about him ? they are older but still have that youthful look and flexibility to be made older again later.The likes of jack nicholson looks great older but how do you get him looking like a 35 year old again?

Conor

Its a very tricky role, one that if not cast right it would ruin it, vinny jones, kevin spacey not a chance.joe pesi would hav been perfect for demeo,vince vaughan would b somone dat would hav do size but it would b a big gamble. The piliot in conair wit do beard & long hair look an awful lot like him and hes big enough. They hav 2 b fairly massive and strong lookin and hav a cold unnerving look about dem. Do bad guy in no country for old men is another guy. I dont think gandolfini would b good, he just looks too italion and wood harlison accent is way too strong

Conor

As good as do book is,its probably the best book i hav ever read, i really hope he dosnt become a heroic figure or admired because at the end of the day he murdered and tortured people for money. Its
One thing readin his story but if u really try & imagine urself in sum of do situations its even more terrifyin,he was wat he hated a bully and a lowlife

marion

this has to be made into a movie to not would be a crime he is one of the most interesting killers i have read about. All those psychology students would have great discussions about the nature – nurture debate. Back to the casting we dont want a pretty boy trying to depict a killer we need someone with age about them maybe jeff bridges could pull it off. Jack Nicholson would be have been perfect but he is way to old to do it successfully. Kuklinski is a very intense person to view and it will be hard to find someone to portray him accurately but I really want to see this come to life it is history in its rawest form whether you like it or not. Hell they made a movie about Ted Bundy so why not Kuklinski at least Kuklinski had some morals he never killed women or children and didnt prey on them for his own sexual perverse pleasure.

Adam

This would be an amazing movie, scorcese has to do this film!!
The book was immense, i aint a massive reader but this must be one of the best books ever?!?!
I agree with the fact that you need a younger actor to play the part, its easy to make someone young look old rather then trying to make an old actor look 20, cos they would have to put the earler years in. An unknown would be the best choice but obviously there would be no point in these posts.
You wouldnt want someone who was a really great looking actor or a Movie star looking actor. even tho Ed Nortan looked pretty mean in American history x, Gandolfini was my straight away idea but he IS too Italian and too known for playing T.S.

I know he’s a bit of a tv actor and a heartthrob but he is young, mean, tall, built and pretty intimating in true blood – Alexander Skarsgard??

Before you cast Mickey Roark or any other actor to play Richard Kuklinski,stop and take a look at actor John Malkovich.He has got the facial features,the height,the same evil eyes,and even the same hairstyle as Kuklinski.He is a natural for the part.

Ronan

Ray Liotta anyone??

Bob

No one yet mentioned will be up to the task. You are searching for an unknown. So many people have seen the real Richard Kuklinski that you need someone who is 6’5″ 300lbs who will be able to do the acting work. If you can’t find him, don’t do the movie. Gandolfini IS typecast, but also, with makeup etc. is close to Kuklinski’s look. He is a big guy, or at least looks that way on camera, but not 6’5″. I’m still not thinking it should be made with him as the lead.

fortheduration

James Gandolfini first choice. Second would be Nick Nolte.
Mickey Rourke MIGHT pull it off. Had this Channing Tatum got this role and Martians who were contemplating colonizing the Earth would Fly off and regard the Planet earth as the STUPIDEST Planet in the solar System!

Mark

Bale could definitely pull it off. He would be dedicated to put on the pounds neeeded to play Richard. Another possibilty is Aaron Eckhart.

fortheduration

You people are giving MORONIC casting choices like Leaonardo Decaprio a SISSY…Christian Bale another SISSY etc etc etc….

fortheduration

Actually GANDOLFINI’S Tony Soprano casting was MODELED from KUKLINSKI…a little known FACT….including his love for Ducks….which was typified Greatly in several sopranos Episodes.

Mark

I heard about the Gandolfini/Iceman connection. In fact, my sister lived on Hardenburgh Ave., right near the duck pond RK frequented. Thank God I wasn’t there splashing at the ducks at the same time he was there! Another name to throw in the mix, if he’s clean and sober (not likely) Tom Sizemore. He has the size and the acting ability but what studio would take a chance on this guy?

fortheduration

I’am NOW reading the book. When I first saw the HBO “Iceman Tapes”
I KNEW Kuklinski was a liar and EMBELLISHED the truth.He was in jail and wanted to (A)look like a big shot. (B)Draw a book/Movie deal for his family to live off of. The book is GREAT if one views it as fiction…but even one who steals chocolate bars from 5 different stores is gonna get caught! The book is REDUNDANT and makes ZERO sense, RK ALWAYS having a Public Beef with some guy then 2 days later the guys dead body is Found…NO one makes the Connection in some 40 or more “Murders”
like that? And that RK BS about him setting up a “Time Lapsed” camera and LIGHTS in a cave while some “Mark” gets eaten alive by RATS..I didn’t know that caves had Electricty? ? ?

Mistanature

Yo i always thought Markie Mark Wahlberg has the look, but he’s too short(better than channing tatum still).
This is the first time i heard Mickey Rourke’s name which isn’t that bad…but MY ACTOR which no one has said yet….is 1.a very good actor 2.Nominated 3. has the look 4. is just a few inches short……anywayz drumroll……none other then…..Mr………..JOSH BROLIN…..and 5. He would definetly do it with the write script.

brendan gleeson or viggo mortensen as the iceman,edward norton as provanzano,sean penn as pat kane and joaquin phoenix as roy de meo

originaldeadman

what about jeff bridges? i know he’s short but he kinda looked like kuklinski in iron man

mistanature

1.Josh Brolin 2.Mickey Rourke 3.Jimmy Gandolfini

mistanature

Holy shit….i just saw some pics of the dude back in the day looks just like the mother fucker on zodiac…..dud who played Drew Carrey’s cross dressing brother…..that muh fucka could totally pull it off!

CHAD

james gandolfini would be an excellent choice for kuclinski,as a force to e dealt with as tony soprano the choice should be quite obvious.

Ronan

In response to fortheduration:
I beleive alot of the murders RK takes credit for it the book are exaggerated ie Roy DeMeo. He claims to have worked with him on numerous occassions yet is not mentioned once in ‘Murder Machine’, the book about DeMeo’s murders. In Gaspipe’s (Casso) biography, which is also wrote by Phillip Carlo, DeMeo’s killing was attributed to Anthony Casso. I do beleive though that RK is very well capable of some
of the stories told in ‘the Ice Man’ and I’m pretty sure lights & cameras can be battery powered too

Just finished the book. I thought it was a great book. At times redundant and a little far feched. One things for sure it would make a great movie with the right actor. Tony Soprano would be the natrual choice but I think would I be thinking Tony as Tony not Richard. I like the John Malkovich idea.

Watched Shawshank Shank Redemption last night for the 10th+ time (great movie). How about Tim Robbins? Hes got the size and pedigree.

fortheduration

It’s IMPOSSIBLE to power camera lights and motion detectors over a course of several days while RATS eat a man up as KUKLINSKI claims. battery packs even TODAY don;t make it past a half an hour. In the book NONE of those tapes were ever Seen or substantietad by Cops or ANYONE. Kunklinski Tried to make himself a Bigger Man than he was,like claiming to RIP a womens car doors off the hinges?????? He had no real muscularity..he was a liar!

Donny boy

The one actor who could play the Iceman IMO, Peter Iacangelo

fortheduration

MOST of these “Actor Choices” for KUKLINSKI are made from IMBECILES……if an Actor does NOT have the PHYSICAL look…..it CAN’T be done….I don’t care HOW good you think they are!

fortheduration

The book WAS REDUNAT,and many times Irrelevant for instance,the writer describes HOBOKEN NJ “The Hometown of Frank Sinatra” WHO cares…and OTHER Irrelevant pasages.

Sunny

4theduration obviously entitled to his opinion, hasn’t a clue. 1. The essence of what acting is,is to become or portray others. 2. Sinatra on almost any list would come up as either the number one or two singer of all times (Elvis being the other); a man who’s career spanned a time of nearly 70 years and well known to many generations. When mentioning a locale in a book it is often mentioned that it is the birth place of a significant person born there! It is easy to be a critic and have an opinion another thing entirely to contribute.

Sunny

Billy

Hey I Googled this Iacangelo guy (because I didn’t know who he was). Wow! I would put him up there with the best. He’s done some fine work. Probably most known for his work in “Fight Club” but he has starred in many films and hundreds of TV shows. I guess he’s not much of a publicity hound. He gets my vote for the role.

mak

Kevin Nash the wrestler is his double

bubble

what about joaquin phoenix? he has that whole misterious thing going on and has put a bit of wieght on failling that then i think it would have to be someone not that well known so not to overshadow the ice mans actuall character which is in itself amazing

fortheduration

You people are MORONIC Candy-Asses…..JOAQUIN PHOENIX as KUKLINSKI…what a SORRY ass generation you kids REALLY are. You need a Hard-Ass cat to play the role (( PERIOD )) STOP with the weirdo fantasy Casting!

johnnybhoy

dont know the guys name but he played the psycho in no country for old men, that dude was scary, not as scary the iceman but with a real good make over he could pull it off {mabey}

fortheduration

In REALITY………NO one has the Physical characteristics nor the charisma OF KUKLINSKI to play him. NICK NOLTE I feel is the ONLY one PHYSICALLY and actor enough to play the guy!

wow lots of great choices guys, but the verdict is as follows… young version should be(leonardo dicaprio) guy is the baddest actor right now,, a hit maker!!! and the interview version or old kuklinski should be (jack nicholson) the hall of famer, another hit maker……. RA

fortheduration

ORLANDO
Leonardo Dicaprio is a FAGGOT just like you…you MUST be Fucken kidding!

DM

James Gandolfini definitely looks the most like Richard. I think James would have worked just fine.

fortheduration

The Tony Soprano character was BASED on KUKLINSKI…THAT is WHY
Gandolfini was cast AS that Character….FACT!

jake

viggo mortensen was a good choice, eric bana might be able to pull off the younger years as well

seth

The only person I could think of with the acting ability and the stature to play Kuklinsky is believe it or not…John Goodman! Shocking I know, but he can pull it off. P.S. Read the book, awesome!!!

fortheduration

SETH…..JOHN GOODMAN is NOT so far-fetched! Also considering some of the SEMEN Swallowing suggestions I’ve seen on here ALREADY!

fortheduration

MOST of you People ar fucken IMBECILES with your KUKLINSKI casting Suggestions. Probably an Unknown actor is “Waiting in the Wings” who has the physicality OF KUKLINSKI which for a Role like that is a MANDATORY Need!

Gaffer 138

I think this should be made into two films as the book covers a lot of ground.Don’t think he’s been mentioned yet but Clancy Brown as Richard Kuklinski ticks all the boxes for me(remember the Kurgen?).For the interview stage i think Larry Drake looks a lot like him,Also Robert Knepper would be good as Robert Pronge.

Daniel

James Gandolfini would be perfect IMO. Actors like Wilkinson etc look too anglo.

fortheduration

CLANCY BROWN…an EXCELLENT Choice,How about Michael Rooker?

fortheduration

Also actor Vic Noto,an unknown,check him out by punching in his name to Youtube Especially the “Real Men” Video,he’s done Homicide and the Sopranos and recently the Scorsese/HBO Series Boardwalk Empire.

Maura

How about Tom Sizemore? Or is he in jail or rehab? I actually went to catholic school with Kuklinskis kids. He did the whole “Bingo volunteer” thing and all (usually wearing a long black trenchcoat – weird). Read the Iceman book and couldn’t believe the actions of this man, since childhood!

fortheduration

SIZEMORE is out and about making films.He’s Great but Not really a Physical match for KOOKLINSKI!

Bjorn Henrikson

I think Woody Allen would be a great choice to play Richard Kuklinski!

johnny rotten

what about sean connery, I know hes retired but if he was to read carlos book….

Jason W.

I know the perfect actor. Jonathan Banks. He is great in Breaking Bad and has the eyes of someone who has seen many bad things.

Jason W.

Jonathan Banks.

Luce

Thank GOD Tatum has been denied the role – how about David Morse? (Green Mile) He’s a big fella & a bloody good actor. If they’re going ahead with Rourke I hope he does the job well.

John

I’m not sure of the mans name. But I’m certain you can find out. He has the craziest eyes. Almost always plays a psycho in movies. He’s also already bald headed now, and a really big man, like Kuklinski. He had a role in the first season or two of the HBO series Deadwood. The guy that was shot a few times and was left to die. But Calamity Jane’s character, Robin Wiegel, nursed him back to health. His name on Deadwood was Moses or Mos. Years ago, when he still had hair, he also played an escape prison psycho on an episode of the 80’s series Miami Vice. I’m sure you can find out this mans name. I’m sure he’s been in other stuff, too. These are two things I remember him in. He’d be perfect. Big guy. Bald headed. Crazy, crazy eyes. And plays an excellent psycho. Take my description and check this guy out for yourself. He’d be an awesome Richard Kuklinski. IMO.

Gaffer 138

Just looked him up on IMDB, His name is Pruitt Taylor Vince and he played Mose Manuel in deadwood. He definitely has a touch of the psycho’s about him.

Maura

Holy crap, how about Christopher Walken? If anyone can play a psycopath, he can!

JAMES GANDOLFINI ALL THE WAY.He’s from New Jersey first of all and secound of all.He’s almost a dead ringer for Richard Kuklinski.Any other choice would be rediculas.Once he grows a goatie and stairs at you with those cold eyes.Forget abought it.He’s Kuklinski.

There is only 1 person that can play this part, Brother Frank Minucci, I know because Frankie & I were the ONLY PEOPLE (Biker Pastors) allowed to speak to him in Prison, Frankie played Tony T in Carlitos way, I know he would be Great, I new him in the old days and am friends with him today, Check out Brother Frank Minucci in google, and Frankie grew up around the ice man,? Typecasting???? Maybe,,,,,,,,,,,

Jonathan T

When I thought of my actor I honestly thought more people would have suggested him, but turns out I’m the first. Liev Schreiber. He’s a bankable star, got the right build (height and frame), a great actor who can convincingly play an evil character and he is of some Polish ancestry (like Kuklinski). With the right make up and hair I think he could pull it off well.

Paul

The lead actor in No country for old men – Javier Bardem

robert

i think what carlo did was the right thing.how can any actor”apart from de niro” be so convenseing. no way I SAY!

Alan

Ron Perlman would be a good choice…

DP

I don’t think it matters who does what…the movie is going to ruin a great book and several documentaries. I have been fascinated with this man for so long now that I just cannot imagine ANYONE capturing this character.

just a nodody who is passionate about movies

I understand what you’re saying about Gandolfini being at risk of getting type-cast, but seriously, he is the only choice. The only choice.

Look at the pictures of Kuklinksi when he was a young man. I’d never seen those pictures before because I’ve only really just become interested in him, but when I watched that doc and saw those pictures it sent a shiver down my spine. That could almost have been Gandolfini himself.

I dont think we should be afraid of type-casting actors. I think we should be more afraid of not casting the right person, or afraid of making a less than stellar film. Take Kemper for example. Now there is a man worthy of a film, a fascinating character who I could sit and listen to for hours if given the opportunity, but look at the film they made about him. The one serial killer who’s story was almost tailor made for a serious look at society, and they missed that opportunity and instead produced brain-mushing garbage. Choose to make a film, choose to make a film for the right reasons, choose to make the right film , and then choose to put the right actor in the right role.

Thats Gandolfini. In fact I’d refuse to watch this film if he did’nt have that role. It would be criminal not to cast him in this particular case, even with the type-casting in mind.

nicole

tom wilkinson definately!!!!!!!! and this book was beyond amazing. i hope they continue through with a movie. its one ill definately be seeing! and owning!!!

nicole

i like the brother frank minucci though, he’d suite it well

Marcus

A few of us have discussed this at work… I posted on Facebook the question who should play the part?

I think Liam Neeson would be ideal… if he was 30 years younger Clint Eastwood would be a shout….

johnny rotten

what about Bert Young from the Rocky films… or is he past it?

Andy E

If he were younger, Nick nolte. Gary busey would get the sneer, and possibly work toward the accent and can be made to look like him. If he were an actor, boxing trainer Teddy Atlas, sounds just like him.
Jack Nicholson could play the iceman who was interviwed for HBO.
he’s closest to the attitude. john Lithgow, maybe.Gandolfini is TOO FAT.
Remember the contradiction. The iceman was a big man, with a low controlled soft voice for a big man. believe it or not, Russell Crowe might be a good fit. One problem with the younger actors is that for the most part, they are too effeminate. Ben Affleck would be good. Michael Keaton might be ok, except his height.

Andy E

Billy Zane would be an interesting pick

Andy E

My last suggestion. Tobin Bell (from SAW 1-5)

Raffy

Gerard Butler would be the perfect ICEMAN
If you have seen Law Abiding Citizen then you totally agree with me.
I have seen the ICEMAN interviews and read the book twice, it needs to be put on the big screen.

What about john lithgow, at least for the older parts because i doubt they find only one actor to pull of kuklinski as it sounds like it will be a biopic. Lithgow already portrayed a convincing serial killer in dexter

juicer

John Goodman. (circa his Big Lebowski days.)

Speaking of Big Lebowski, what about Jeff Bridges?

or Mike Starr.

Jane

I agree with Andy who says Jack Nicholson. He can play any character and this is definitely a role he is cut out for. Richard was a beast, a giant-and that’s a very big aspect of his character. I should know-his grandson is my good friend.

Bean

Michael Shannon… In his time, I think George C. Scott coulda pulled it off nicely.

Jamie

Just got done reading the book. Unbelievable. I really hope they make this into a movie. John Malkovich maybe for the older Richard. They made him look like a big guy in Of Mice and Men. Might work.

Mark

I think Eric Allen Kramer would be perfect for the role, if I was going to make the movie that’s who I would cast. I would also go for sean Penn for Roy demeo. My reasons behind my idea for Eric Allen Kramer is because he looks like the iceman, and virtually unknown. ( he was bear in American wedding) he’s a good actor. And Sean Penn because he’s Sean Penn.

I think Paul Bettany would make a great younger Kuklinski(He’s the crazy monk from The Da Vinci Code) He also has a good height(A bit skinny though), and can do an amazing evil looking face that looks chilling.

Also Roy Demeo (If he’s in it) can be played by either James gandolfini/Joe Pesci/Sean Penn or Nicholas Turturro.

Pat Kane should absolutely be played by Christian Bale hands down.

Dominic polifrone i believe can be played by John Turturro.

Robert

Unfortunately it doesn’t matter who’s cast, because there’s no way you can tell his life story in around 3 hours. This is bound to fail. If you havent read his biography, do so. But for arguments sake Gandolfini fits the bill.

Christopher Beckley

i think Tom Hardy would be ace for this role so ideal please check him out in films like BRONSON and THE TAKE i would love to know what you people think of my choice i think tom hardy all the way.

Mike

james gandolfini the best

Cdouglas2009

David Morse would do a great job if he played the part as dark as in Disturbia and put some weight on

Imagination Man

I looked up Tatum and had to laugh out loud. Is this High School casting? Mickey Rourke could make it work but I know if they find the right person the movie will surely be at least a 4 stars. Rourke would be more of a 3. Tatum? LOL 1.5 stars and that’s just being nice.

I love the idea of Pennt o play DiMeo. I think that’s right on. As for The Iceman, a younger Sean Connery would have worked well. Obviously that’s not an option now, so I would have to go with Gerald McRaney.

Lester

What about Vincent D’onforio. I always thought he would be a good choice.

polack

Michael Ironside. easy.

bird

Kevin Cage all the way, he can use his same look from Heat

joe kane

ryun hurst of sons of anarchy was is perfect for the roll of kuskinski yu know the opie guy he’s 6 4 and heavy set .deniro for roy demeo.penn would be pefect mr.softee

I think and I know it sounds maybe to Hollywood but I think that Vince Voughn would make a good Richard Kulkinsky. He’s the right body built, same height could make a very convincing Polish Irish. They both have the same hair line. He could pull it off I know it.

Dubz351

When i heard of the movie i instantly thought David Morse.. Hes similar in appearance, has the size to match, and at times an emotionless appearance.. but i totally agree with what your saying about this being a unique role to play.

Guest

Ron Pearlman, thats all I got to say.

Johnmoggs

for me it can only be javier bardem (no country for old men ) a perfect kuklinski .
only a great actor can pull this off he kiklinski diserves that much

moggs

Monkey Biscuit

You’re All Morons – Javier Bardem – Mo’Fo’s Do You See It Now!

Hoeloemo

Steven Seagal !!!!!!!

Ross

Jeff bridges, gandolfini, madsen or…… RAY WINSTONE would be ideal if not
Perfection

Cleopatra4240

i think no one can. richard was one! of a very special kind..

Sam

James Gandolfini or Michael Shannon

FRANCESCOGALLEGO

WILLIAM HURT IS THE NUMBER 1 CHOICE
CHECK OUT HIS ROLES IN MR. BROOKS AND A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE
DEFINITELY COULD PULL IT OFF

Rex

Richard Kuklinkski said himself that he only killed men, never women or children. He claimed to have killed over 250 men, often torturing them with chainsaws, pool sticks, and fire. He cut off the tongue of one man and shoved it up the man’s anal orifice. He cut off another man’s testicles and stuffed them in the man’s mouth. But despite his sadistic violence, Kuklinski stated he would never hurt children or women. The guy said he had no remorse in killing men, however. And he killed and tortured many men.

Why does everyone think Pronge was a small man?? He was just as big as Kuklinski-lol. Franco and Knepper are horrible choices….The Guy was 6’2 and had red hair. Where are you pulling these guys out of? and why is it that everyone makes him seem like he was a weasely guy? He was Kuklinski’s mentor. Its well documented-Christian Bale puts on a little weight he would be a great Pronge.

Jdslezinger

James Gandolfini is the only actor who could do Richard Kuklinski any justice. Not only because of his look, but James Gandolfini is an amazing actor and could pull off his mannerisms pretty well I believe.

mick

no. 1 pick benicio del toro then Javier Bardem then mickey rourke

fuck off

christopher walken puts on 100 lbs and he’s in

longliveUSA

I agree with the writer of this article. Kuklinski is a complex and fascinating man, despite his crimes. If a movie is too be made, it should be made with the right motives and casting should be intelligently well thought out and careful. I get the sense that there is only a typical strong cynical desire for profit only, a cheap Hollywood whore trick pulled off by a bunch of ninnies. It would not do the subject matter justice.

Totoro

He’s a great actor but what of the accent??? There’s no way he could pull it off. No way.

Ray Winstone is my pick for this role. He even looks like Richard Kuklinski.

Merle

I agree with this choice. Christopher Walken is also tall but I think Ray Winstone is better. Richard Kuklinski and Ray Winstone could pass as natural twins. And Ray Winstone could play the iceman well. You may have seen him intimidate Leonardo Dicaprio in The Departed.

OK I think there has to be 3 different Actors playing the Iceman an it should be like a 3-4 part TV Miniseries.I think that would be the only way the viewers coul get a realistic picture whow Evil that SOB was he may RIH(Rest In Hell)Devin Brochu as a Child.He’s a very talented kid he could play btwn 13-17yrs of age Tyler Labine woul be the perfect young Kuklinski Colm Feore,David Morse,Ray Stevenson anf Jim Gandolfini could all do a good Older Iceman Iwould go with IDK It’s a toss up btwn Gandolfini and Stevenson.What do you guys think???Let me know plse

Bystander

OK, Here’s your man: Donald Gibb. Perfect to play Kuklinski. BTW, I’ve read The Ice Man and have seen the interview vids. This actor has a striking resemblence!!